How are your first impressions?
Do you always look your very best? Say everything right?
When it comes to rescue animals, the first impression is a life or death matter. That split second a person walks by or their profile photo is taken will determine how soon they are adopted, what kind of family they end up in, and what their future looks like.
Big Black Dog Syndrome (BBD/ BDS) is the phenomena where black animals, notoriously large dogs, are passed by in favor of lighter animals. Shelter workers see this superficial factor impacting pet adoption and thus, euthanasia.
There are many hypotheses around why coat color has become such a determining factor in life saving efforts. In kennels, capturing a good quality photo of a black animal is more challenging. This photo is their first, and sometimes only, impression to the world seeing their adoption profile or on social media.
Additionally, fear is a factor when it comes to larger black pets. Doberman, pit bulls, and rottweiler’s have the societal pressure of their breed, but some cultures also interpret the color black as bad luck.
No matter the reason, loving shelter dogs should not miss their chance at a forever home because of a black coat. We can all make a difference with our local animal shelters by taking a second look at the animals who might be overlooked.
Support a black rescue animal today!
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